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Rabbit Eyes

What do rabbits see?

As is the case in us as humans and many other animals,
the retina of a rabbit consists of rod cell and cone cells. However, the
ratio of rods and cone cells in rabbits differ from those in humans. It is
thought that rabbits are partially colour-blind, in that they are mainly
only sensitive to blue and green. In very bright conditions their eye sight
is significantly reduced.

Rabbits see objects with a kind of grainy image of its
surroundings and also rely on the other senses, such as smell, to identify
objects and people. Due to the position of the eyes on either side the
rabbit’s head; it has the ability to see almost 360° around itself except
for tiny areas, directly behind them and under the chin. This greatly helps
them in the wild where they need to be aware of the risk of predators in the
area.

What should a healthy rabbit’s eyes look like?

Healthy eyes in rabbits should always be clean and
bright. They should not weep any discharge, there should not be any dust or
debris on or around its surface, or be cloudy in appearance. There should be
no visible cuts or abrasions on the eye and neither should there be an
inflammation or redness. Each eye of the rabbit has a tear duct and this is
responsible for maintaining the correct lubricating conditions it requires.
In addition to keeping the eye moist, the rabbit has a Nictitating Membrane
which is better known as the third eyelid which also provides the eye with
protection.

Below, a very simple diagram of a rabbit’s eye is
shown.

What problems can rabbits’ eyes have?

Some rabbits can go through their entire lives without
having any visible signs of eye problems. Despite this others can,
unfortunately, be especially prone to afflictions of the eyes and so it is
important to know what to watch out for. Some problems, if left untreated
can lead to fatal consequences for the affected rabbit.

Eye Infections in Rabbits

If your rabbit is suspected to have an eye infection,
then it should immediately be taken to the vet in order to prevent the
problem spreading. Conjunctivitis and pasteurellosis are both possible eye
infections your rabbits may contract. You can spot these infections if the
eye is swollen and red and if some discharge is observed at the corners.
Abscesses can occur all over the body and can be a result from the two
infections mentioned previously. If there is an abscess behind the eye then
this is very painful and the main sign is a distinct bulging of the eye.
Tear ducts are also able to become infected in rabbits. Infected tear ducts
result in a viscous discharge and the infected eye may be partially closed.

Myxomatosis

This viral infection has been given a section of its
own due to its dangerous and fatal consequences, a deadly disease;
myxomatosis should always be vaccinated against in rabbits. Affected rabbits
will initially have inflamed eyes and so veterinary help should be sought
immediately. It is an extremely contagious disease and so animals suspected
of having it should be isolated.

Allergies in Rabbits

If a rabbit has an allergy then this can be presented
as weeping or running eyes. This may be caused by the bedding used being two
dusty. This can be simply rectified by buying dust free bedding. Dust free
hay should also be used. Some aerosols may result in an allergic reaction.
An allergy can also lead to conjunctivitis. If the signs and symptoms are
presented, that is to say that if the rabbit does have weepy or runny eyes
then the vet should be contacted in case of another causal factor and for
treatment advice.

Scratches on the Surface of the Eye

Once a rabbit has had its eye scratched, there is high
risk of the formation of an ulcer. This can be very painful and may cause
the eye to appear cloudy. Scratches and ulcers can cause the rabbit to
partially close its eye and there may be an almost pin prick like dip on the
surface of the eye. Scratches can occur from harsh knocks or even from
coarse straw which ideally should not be used as bedding as a result of this
exact problem. A vet should be immediately contacted if this occurs.

Teeth and Eye Problems in Rabbits

If a rabbit’s teeth are allowed to overgrow, then this
can have adverse effects on its eyes. The rabbit’s tear duct may be blocked
as a result and lead to weepy or runny eyes. Overgrown teeth can lead to
abscesses forming behind the eye. Often treatment includes both the teeth
and eyes. This problem can easily be prevented by caring for the rabbit’s
teeth with the appropriate diet and by having regular checks.

Other possible causes of rabbit eye problems

The rabbit may have an ingrown eye lash which can cause
a lot of discomfort for the affected animal. As in humans, rabbits can also
have cataracts. Owners can first notice this when the eye appears cloudy.

How do I keep my rabbit’s eyes healthy?

Healthy eyes in all animals are very important,
especially in domestic rabbits. Reducing the amount of dust in the animal’s
living area is very important as this can be argued to be the main source of
eye problems. Keeping the bedding and all areas clean plays an important
role in maintaining the health of rabbits, and this is also true for keeping
their eyes in good condition.

Regularly checking the pet’s eyes can prevent any small
problems from progressing and if anything is spotted then the vets should be
called immediately. As already mentioned, some eye problems can lead to
infection in other parts of the body and can even lead fatal consequences
for the affected animal. Ensure that there is no discharge, accumulation of
dirt or debris, cuts or abrasions, inflammation or redness on and around the
eye.

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